No Shave November: Don't forget the real cause behind initiative

Once again, it's that month when men let their beards flow to raise awareness about cancer. Our people have always grown hair as a form of protest. Think Dedan Kimathi and his band of dreadlocked freedom fighters. Think Ngotho Kariuki, George Anyona, Dr Mukaru Ng'ang'a and others, who grew Marxist manes during the push for pluralism in Kenya.

However, the idea of growing a beard to raise awareness of cancer has never taken off in Kenya. In some instances, it has even landed some in trouble - like it recently did with Kamaley my cousin. Last weekend, he arrived at our nyama choma hangout, his cheeks overflowing with a glorious mane that could make a lion envious. We are not used to seeing him that way so it got us surprised.